Then, turning to Mitchel with newfound confidence, he said, “Just make yourself at home, Dr. Chadwick."

Holden's voice exuded a sense of self-assurance as if reclaiming his place.

Mitchel simply smiled and gently wiped a smudge from the corner of Melon's mouth.

Undeterred, Holden persisted and said, "We're unaware of your culinary preferences. Please enlighten us, so we may prepare accordingly for future dinners.”

Mitchel cast a calm glance in Holden's direction. “I'm not picky.”